Hi

My 10 plate focus with 37k on has never had the hydraulic fluid changed.

The brakes feel good etc but I do sometimes notice a bit of clutch judder when first pulling away after a cold start (just once per day).

So, are the brakes and hydraulic clutch using the same fluid?

How easy is it to replace the fluid? What is the procedure and is this something that can be done, say, on the drive?

Does petrol models have a dual mass flywheel?

Thanks,

D

Sent from my XT1039

Brake fluid is hygroscopic which basically means it absorbs water from the air. In extreme conditions the water in the brake fluid can start to boil which causes (steam =) gas inside the brake fluid which dramatically affects the braking. For this reason Ford prescribes to change the brake fluid every 2 years. Another method to determine the condition of the brake fluid is by measuring the water percentage. A decent garage should have a tool to measure the water percentage of the brake fluid. If this percentage is too high the brake fluid needs to be changed.

The clutch uses the same fluid as the brakes. The clutch and the brakes are basically 2 separate systems that share the same fluid reservoir. Personally I do not expect your problem is related to the brake fluid but after 5 years it is a good idea to change it anyway.

From the MK2/MK2.5 Petrol versions does only the 2.0 Duratec and 2.5 ST/RS engines have a double mass flywheel. All other petrol versions do have a single mass flywheel.

Thanks for info. I have a Haynes manual for an 97 fiesta .. Would the procedure for replacing/bleeding the fluid be similar ?

Sent from my XT1039

Yes, The brake bleeding procedure is basically still the same. To change the brake fluid you need 1 liter of brake fluid. This is just enough for the Focus MK2/MK2.5. If you want to flush the brake system at the same time you need an extra liter of brake fluid. Because brake fluid is pretty inexpensive I would buy 2 liter to be on the safe side.

If the clutch is hydraulic and uses the same fluid, how do you bleed that or is it not necessary?

Sent from my XT1039

The clutch has its own bleeding nipple.

Thanks for the help :)